Preparing for labour will help you mentally and physically when the time comes to push your little one into the world. Feeling anxious about giving birth is natural so don’t feel you’re alone in this, but with so many mums telling us being ready really helped, we’d recommend any mum-to-be follows at least some of the handy tips below
1. Attend all of your antenatal classes
NHS classes are free and, not only are they a great way to meet other pregnant women from your local area, but they’ll teach you all about what to expect during the stages of labour, what pain relief options are available and caring for your newborn.
Private classes such as NCT can be a bit pricey, but offer more details on labour and childbirth and very often leave you with mummy friends for life!
2. Create a birth plan
Firstly, you need to be mindful that your ideal plan may not become a reality because babies have a mind of their own and don’t always comply to your wishes. However, having a plan will give you confidence that you are in control and make the time leading up to your labour less stressful. We suggest you write a list of preferences for pain relief, birthing positions and who you would like there with you. Compiling a music playlist can be a fun way to spend time making sure your birth is accompanied by your favourite sounds. We’ve written some top tips on making your ideal birthing music playlist in a past blog, here
3. Pack a hospital bag
Don’t forget you’re packing for two!
For Mum: comfy clothing, maternity pads, toiletries, prescribed meds,and your pre-recorded playlist. Of course your phone is a must to – not just to keep in contact with friends and family but to snap a few pics of the new love of your life!
For Baby: Nappies, baby clothes, blankets and a car seat for the journey home.
4. Spend time learning about pain relief
Genning up on the pain relief options will give you a great sense of control as you head towards your due date. Hospitals will offer you gas and air (Entonox), pethidine and epidurals. Many pregnant women hire a TENS machine which can be used at home as soon as your contractions start. Breathing techniques can really help and many women swear by the pain relief brought on by giving birth in water. Hypnobirthing is another choice you may wish to make – you can find out more about this in a previous blog.
5. Prepare your body
Labour can require a lot of stamina so keeping fit and active is a good way to prepare your body. Regular, pregnancy safe exercises will help build up your physical and mental strength and are a great way to de-stress. If you don’t have the time to attend regular classes why not try out our very own pregnancy exercise expert’s online classes or if that’s not your thing try walking a little every day.
6. Prepare your mind
Practice relaxation techniques to help calm your nerves now. But more importantly if you’re familiar with deep controlled breathing before labour, it will come naturally when you’re in hospital giving birth. Meditation and mindfulness techniques are useful skills too – both will help you feel more in control during labour.
7. Don’t listen to the horror stories
Try not to listen to the stories about bad births. They will just increase your anxiety and leave you worried about the level of control you’ll have over your labour. There are just as many good birth stories as there are bad and if you follow the tips above you’ll find you feel more confident and prepared for your labour, whatever the circumstances.
